President Donald Trump stated on Friday that Saudi Arabia must join the Abraham Accords before the United States advances a civilian nuclear agreement. This requirement was always understood during negotiations, according to Trump.
Understanding the Proposal
When asked why there appeared to be a new condition after Energy Secretary Chris Wright mentioned progress on a Saudi nuclear deal, Trump dismissed the idea that anyone had acted prematurely. He clarified that to proceed, Saudi Arabia must become a member of the Abraham Accords, which have been deemed successful. Trump emphasized, “It’s time now that they do it.”
Seeking Broader Use of Nuclear Reactors
The Trump administration is aiming for the broader deployment of both large and small conventional nuclear reactors, following a series of executive orders. Trump views nuclear reactors as vital for powering data centers and boosting economic growth.
When questioned about authorizing Wright to sign the agreement, Trump insisted the condition was understood all along. “It was always understood,” Trump stated. “If they joined the Abraham Accords, the deal is not, I’m not going to do the deal.”
Congressional Approval Required
Trump stressed that any agreement would still require Congressional approval. Without Saudi Arabia’s involvement in the Abraham Accords, the deal wouldn’t progress. He stated, “Subject to Congress and everything else, in order for that deal to go through, they had to sign into the Abraham Accords.”
According to Trump, the Abraham Accords contribute to peace in the Middle East. He noted a shift in the regional security dynamics following the diminished military capabilities of Iran. “There’s no longer an Iran factor,” Trump commented, highlighting reduced Iranian power.
Focus on Civilian Nuclear Energy
Trump highlighted that any agreement with Saudi Arabia would focus solely on civilian nuclear energy, with no enrichment involved. “It’s civil nuclear,” Trump assured.
The remarks came during an Oval Office event celebrating advancements in nuclear energy. Four privately funded reactor companies met Trump’s goal of having new reactor designs ready by the Fourth of July. During the gathering, Trump celebrated what he termed a “historic milestone for civilian nuclear energy” and a “renaissance of nuclear power in America.”
The White House did not respond to Fox News Digital’s request for further comment. Jasmine Baehr, a breaking news writer for Fox News Digital, covers politics, military, legal debates, as well as faith and culture.
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